In case you’ve just stumbled upon this blog, let me formally introduce myself so we can get off on the right foot. My name is Sydney Breann, and I am a full-service elopement photographer and planner based in Kalispell, Montana. That’s right, Glacier National Park is basically my backyard! My unique combination as an elopement photographer and elopement planner allows my couples to thoroughly enjoy every aspect of their day. Before we dive into the benefits of hiring a full-service elopement photographer, let’s get into why I decided to add planning services to my business.

Why I Added Elopement Planning to My Photography Business 

Here’s the deal… I’ve spent the past 8 years photographing over 160 weddings. As I niched down my business to align with my passion for adventuring alongside intentional couples, I quickly realized a significant gap in the elopement industry. Because nearly 99% of my elopement couples are from out of state, they are often burdened with an overwhelming number of tasks to sort out from hundreds of miles away. I found myself stepping in to help my couples make contact with vendors, assisting with Glacier National Park wedding permits, etc. Before I knew it, I found myself mocking up tablescapes, designing timelines from start to finish, calling vendors myself, you name it. 

The heart behind my photography business has always been keeping my couples at the forefront. As the gap in the elopement industry continued to widen, I was so excited to bring a new spin on my elopement photography services. I then began my adventure as a Montana elopement photographer and full-service planner. I began offering elopement planning as an optional add-on for my current couples, and the rest is history. Now, the vast majority of my couples opt for at least some component of elopement planning with their photography packages. 

But you’re probably wondering what all the hype is about, right? What parts of elopement planning are the most challenging? Is it worth the money? I’ll answer these questions and more, below. Keep on reading, friend!

Benefits of Hiring an Elopement Photographer and Planner

Eliminates Miscommunication

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a “dual purpose” elopement profession is the elimination of the ‘middle man’. There’s something so comforting about only having to interact with one vendor. One of the biggest reasons eloping appeals to couples is the prospect of a less stressful planning experience. But what surprises many of those couples is the amount of logistics that actually go into executing their vision. No matter the size of the guest list, there’s no shortage of tasks to complete for an elopement.

By entrusting the expertise of just one professional, couples are able to eliminate the risk of miscommunication. I like to compare this to a game of telephone. Say you’re a bride, and you need to review your day-of timeline with your photographer, planner, venue coordinator, officiant, and guests. something is bound to get missed. The risk of miscommunication can cause a ton of unnecessary anxiety for couples. 

All-in-One Elopement Expert

Another benefit of hiring an elopement photographer who offers elopement planning services is that you are truly getting to work with an expert in the industry. The amount of time and research that goes into planning to simply photograph an elopement is extensive. It frequently includes vendor recommendations, mocking up day-of timelines, location scouting, creating back up plans, etc. 

An elopement planner basically “rounds out” the scope of knowledge. For example, the planning packages I offer include lodging recommendations, mood boards, a planning checklist, and budgeting tips (to name just a few inclusions). As an elopement photographer and full-service planner, I am able to be that resource that couples desire when investing thousands of dollars for their dream elopement. Couples aren’t confused about which vendor to take their questions to; I am typically their main point-of-contact. 

Fully Enjoy Your Day

I believe that every couple deserves to feel like a guest at their wedding, rather than hosts. Hear me out; while the day is absolutely fully focused on the couple, I’ve noticed how much time and energy the newlyweds spend on entertaining their guests. Before they know it, they’ve spent their entire wedding day making sure everyone else is having a good time. When couples choose Sydney Breann Photography, they are choosing an experience that allows them to be fully present on their best day ever. 

Do I Need an Elopement Planner?

Don’t get me wrong: the hands-off, guest-at-your-own-wedding style isn’t for every couple. As many benefits of hiring a full-service elopement photographer as there are… it might not be the best fit for you (and that’s okay). When I got married, I knew right away that I personally wanted to handle all the nitty gritty details (it’s the hardcore type A in me!). I wanted to be in charge of vendor communication, thrifting decor, designing my own paper goods, and more. And yes, it was stressful. If you also have a Type A personality, you’ll probably find more comfort in handling the logistics.

While I can’t speak for all elopement photographers who offer planning services, my planning services are limited out at a certain number of guests. So if you’re planning a larger elopement or intimate wedding, it would be recommended to opt for a more ‘traditional’ wedding planner. With a larger guest list, additional assistance will be needed (depending on your vision). 

Planning an Intentional Elopement | Montana Elopement Photographer and Planner

Elopements come with many preconceived notions. For some, eloping means “running away”, “being cheap”, or even “lonely”. But I’m here to tell you: it can be whatever you want it to be. Eloping can mean tying the knot atop a mountain with just your person as the rising sun paints the valley below. But eloping can also mean an intimate ceremony surrounded by your closest people, and a dinner of tacos beneath the stars. 

At the end of the day, your elopement should be more than beautiful photos. It should be an entire intentional experience planned to a “T”. A photography and planning experience so you can wander into your elopement without stress. Not just photography and not just planning, but the ultimate experience of both photography and planning by Sydney Breann, so you can spend your day fully immersed in adventure and spontaneity, with me taking care of the rest. 

Ready to learn more about eloping in Northwest Montana? Check out some of my top resources below! And be sure to keep up with the latest over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto) for a first look at some exciting projects coming soon! So what do you say, are you ready to wander?

Montana Elopement Resources

How to DIY Your Elopement Florals
The Ultimate Elopement DIY Planning Guide: NW Montana & Glacier National Park
How to Elope in Montana
Top 5 Places to Elope in Montana
50 Activities to Do on Your Elopement Day
How to Elevate Your Elopement
Couple’s Guide to Preparing for Your Elopement
Splurge vs. Save: Elopement Edition